PA’s Little Town Of Bethlehem Has Giant History, Pleasant SurprisesBy Ann AugunasContributing Writer BETHLEHEM, PA — I had been thinking that, because of the looming economic downturn and Christmas well upon us, most folks would probably forego traveling and stay snug at home this holiday season, attending to all of the usual and necessary preparations that go along with it. I found it wasn’t the case when we arrived in Bethlehem to take in their famous Christkindlmarkt, just a few weeks ago. Evidently, many folks had preparations well in hand because we found that there was not much room at the Inns we tried to book. Of course we had waited until the last minute! The Hotel Bethlehem was filled to capacity, and Hyatt Place, an attractive, fairly new, limited service hotel around the corner from the other, almost was, but we were happy to get accommodations there and enjoyed our stay. Rooms are mini-suites with sleeping area/sitting area/microwaves and small refrigerators. Full breakfast and free parking are included and it’s only minutes to walk downtown from its front doors. (www.hyattplace.com) The spirit of Christmas was in the air. It was especially noticeable at Christkindlmarkt, where thousands of people from states far and near came to enjoy the festivities. Modeled after outdoor markets in Europe, Bethlehem’s Christkindlmarkt has gained recognition as one of the top,outdoor holiday markets in the world by Travel& Leisure Magazine. That’s great praise for such a small place! And if you’ve never been you might consider putting it in your travel planner for next year. Just in case, Christkindlmarkt is to be located at the PNC Plaza at Steel Stacks, the former site of the Bethlehem Steel plant. Free parking is available adjacent to the venue. On that same site is the new ArtsQuest Center, an impressive, 65,000-square foot performing arts center. It’s a great entertainment venue deserving of a visit if only to get the chance to see the Bethlehem Steel blast furnaces that serve as background for this new space, a truly-awe-inspiring sight. If you love history, there is a short video on the Company to be found at a small exhibit at the Rest Center. It’s quite interesting as it describes the unfortunate demise of Bethlehem Steel as well as the eminent role the company played in the making of many of the wonders of our modern world including the Golden Gate Bridge, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, Hoover Dam, and the Trans-Siberian Railroad, to name just a few. At one period of time, the plant actually turned out a ship a day. But that’s not all to be found at the Steel Stacks. Feeling lucky? Stop in at the Sands Casino Resort next door. Over 3,000 slots await your pleasure! Hungry? Treat yourself to a great steak dinner with all the fixings at Emeril’s Chop House. It’s worth the ticket! While you might find Christmas in Bethlehem at its Victorian best, anytime of year is a good time to visit. Personally, it wasn’t until this past September, when attending a business conference at the Hotel Bethlehem, that we stepped foot in town, so we actually knew very little about the place. Then I took advantage of a guided tour with the Hotel’s Historian. Learning about the city’s great Moravian influence, and just how progressive and ahead of their time these people were, was an eye-opener for me and has made me eager to learn more. From its place in the American Revolution to its entrance into the Industrial Revolution, this amazing “little Bethlehem” has, in reality, a history that has made it a giant. One just has to do more digging to uncover it. Walking around town helps and there are special places not to be missed as you do. Try lunch or dinner, weekends only, at The Sun Inn (1758) at 556 Main St., it’s a sweet step into the past and serves delicious meals as well. George and Martha Washington, Samuel Adams, and other colonial dignitaries dined here. The Inn also claims its own ghost! Hotel Bethlehem, the elegant grande dame that anchors downtown Bethlehem, and one of the Historic Hotels of America, definitely requires a visit. You’ll be charmed by its interior as it still retains much of its Old World cachet. Lunch, dinner, and cocktails are offered in The Tap Room, off of the main lobby. Visit “The Mural Ballroom” also off the main lobby. Seven beautiful murals painted by artist George Gray (1907-2004) depict the history of Bethlehem. As for our accommodations, they were quite nice and featured comfortable beds, modern amenities, complimentary high-speed internet access, Hi-def TV, and premium channels. Rates fall into the mid-to upper price range and depend on seasons, etc.. (www.hotelbethlehem.com) Finally, you must stop in at the Moravian Book Shop. Everyone does! It’s the oldest, continuously operating bookstore in the world (1745). But you could get lost here because it has developed into a rather large store that holds not only books -- I was surprised at how few -- but all sorts of retail items as well. At the end of the day, it really doesn’t matter when you get to visit Bethlehem, just get there. As a four-season destination there’s always something of interest going on, be it the Celtic Classic in September, or Musikfest in August (30 years running). Why not be part of the fun! (www.artsquest.org)

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